Trent Alexander-Arnold slams World Cup sale plan as a threat to the sport

Trent Alexander-Arnold warned that the World Cup should never have been put up for sale, calling the tournament an “institution” that must remain untouchable, and reflected on his own move to Spain. The story featured an Image: Daily and was published on 23 Aug 2026.

World Cup sale plan rejected

Speaking to the , the 27‑year‑old said, “I just don’t think that’s something that’s appropriate… it’s a football institution that should remain that way and not something that’s shared and owned by different people. It’s something that should stand alone by itself.”

The interview was released by Zoe Delaney, Assistant Showbiz Editor15:47, on 23 Aug 2026, with ImagesTrent accompanying the story.

FIFA abandons private‑investment scheme

It comes as FIFA president Gianni Infantino was forced to abandon plans to seek private investment in a company to run FIFA tournaments, including the men’s and women’s World Cups.

The abandonment means the World Cups will stay under the traditional FIFA structure, ending the proposed commercial overhaul.

Life in Madrid and club future

Alexander‑Arnold said he is settling well in the Spanish capital after his move from Liverpool last year, but admitted the late‑night culture was a shock. “I remember the first time we went for dinner, and it’s literally just me in the restaurant. I left about 9 pm… and that’s when people started to come in, and I’m like, ‘Whoa, this is quite crazy.’”

He added that he has been “welcomed better than I could ever have imagined,” while noting a massive culture change, language hurdles and the difficulty of the weather and heat.

The right‑back looks forward to working with new manager José Mourinho after an injury‑ravaged first season, saying the fresh start with new faces, tactics and training feels “new and fresh.”

Alexander‑Arnold also addressed online abuse, saying, “Abuse online and threats made via social DMs or in other ways are a sad part of life in 2026 if you’re in the public eye… I choose to keep those things away from me because they don’t feel real.”

He recalled his return to Anfield for a Champions League match, where he was jeered from the bench in the 80th minute, and said he understands the disappointment but hopes for greater understanding of his decisions after 20 years at the club.